INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS - Origin- Firestoneip

PLANNING THE INSTALLTHESE PLANNING STEPS WILL HELP YOU SAVE TIME AND WILL MAKE THE INSTALLATION EASIER.DETERMINE THE MOUNTING LOCATION FOR THE CONTROL PANEL- Mount inside the vehicle cab, in a place where you will not hit or kick it.- Allow room for the air line tube to run without sharp curves or bends.- Do not obstruct your view or ability to safely operate the vehicle.DETERMINE THE MOUNTING LOCATION FOR THE AIR COMPRESSOR- Provide ample air flow.- Protect from airborne debris and moisture.- If using the optional Frame Installation Kit (Part # 2497),consider the guidelines above, and follow kit’s instructions.PLAN INSTALLATION ROUTES FOR WIRING AND AIR LINES INTO CAB- If possible, use existing factory grommet, such as where a wiring harness enters the cab.- If not possible, drill a hole large enough for two air line tubes and a ground wire. Make surethe wiring and air line tubes are not exposed to sharp metal edges that can damage them.SOAK AIR LINE TUBE ENDS IN HOT WATER BEFORE INSTALLINGONTO BARBED FITTINGS5- The hot water makes the air line tube easier to work with and enables it toshrink onto the barbed fitting for a better seal.MINTAPE ALL ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS- Use electrical tape to appropriately secure and protect all electrical connections.USING PUSH-TO-CONNECT FITTINGS FOR AIR LINESYour kit includes push-to-connect fittings to connect the air line tubes to hardware.Use the instructions below when using the air line.1Insert end of airline tube into airfitting.2Push air line tubeinto air fitting asfar as possible.3Gently pull onthe air line tubeto check for asecure fit.4To remove, pushdown collar andgently pull air linetube away.Removal Tip: Use a 1/4ʺ, 5/16ʺ,or 6mm open-ended wrenchto push the collar down.2829 Installation Instructions12

11PREPARE THE AIR COMPRESSORInstall 1/8 NPT push-to-connectstraight fitting to the head of theair compressor.PRE-INSTALLEDCHECK VALVE1/8 NPT PUSH-TO-CONNECTSTRAIGHT FITTINGTighten to engage two threadsof thread lock.AIR FITTINGAIR COMPRESSOR2DRILL HOLES FOR CONTROL PANEL INSTALLATIONUse the location you selected during the Planning the Installation step on page 12.1Using the control panel slotsas a template, mark two drilllocations with a punch ormarking tool.2Drill a 3/16" diameter holeon each center mark.3Do not mount the controlpanel until step 8.Use control panel as templateto mark drill locations.3/16”CONTROL PANEL13riderite.com

DRILL HOLES FOR AIR COMPRESSOR INSTALLATION3IF YOU ARE USING THE OPTIONAL FIRESTONE AIR COMPRESSOR MOUNTING KIT(PART # 2497), SKIP THIS STEP AND REFER TO THE MOUNTING KIT’S INSTRUCTIONS.CHECK SURROUNDING AREA AND BACK SIDE OF MOUNTINGLOCATION TO AVOID DRILLING INTO EXISTING LINES OR WIRING.1Using the air compressoras a template, mark fourdrill locations with a punchor marking tool.2Mark ground wire fasteninglocation within reach of theground wire ring terminal.3Drill 3/16" diameter holes.Remove any burrs anddebris from drill holes.Drill within reach of the ground wirering terminal on body or frame of vehicle.AIR ACCESSORY MOUNTING KIT CANNOTBE USED AS A GROUNDING LOCATION FORTHE AIR COMPRESSOR.Use as template tomark drill locations.BLACKGROUNDWIREAIR COMPRESSOR3/16”Use as template tomark drill locations.2829 Installation Instructions14

4INSTALL AIR COMPRESSORx5x9x5DO NOT OVER TIGHTEN MOUNTING BOLTS AND NUTS. TOO MUCHTORQUE CAN CRUSH THE BRASS INSERTS AND RUBBER ISOLATORS.1Mount the air compressor to the drill holelocation using the supplied fasteners.DO NOT OVER TIGHTEN.10-32NYLOCK NUT2Mount the black ground wire ring terminal usingthe supplied fasteners. Assure that the ringterminal makes a solid contact with bare metalfor a proper ground. (Optionally, you can runthe negative to the negative battery terminal.)10-32 NYLOCK NUT3/16” FLATWASHER3/16” FLAT WASHERAIR COMPRESSORBLACKGROUNDWIREBODY OR FRAMEOF VEHICLE(or optional Firestoneair accessorymounting kit).3/16” FLAT WASHER10-32 x 1” MACHINE SCREW10-32 x 1”MACHINE SCREWNOTE: You may want tocombine other groundsto this mounting location.3/16” FLATWASHER10-32 NYLOCK NUTBODY OR FRAMEOF VEHICLEAir accessory mountingkit cannot be usedas a groundinglocation for theair compressor.TO CREATE A PROPER GROUND, ASSURE THE GROUND RINGTERMINAL CONTACTS BARE METAL AND IS FASTENED SECURELY.AFTER INSTALLATION, YOU MAY OPTIONALLY COAT THE RINGTERMINAL IN SILICONE TO PROTECT IT FROM CORRODING.15riderite.com

5ROUTE AIR LINE TUBE FROM AIR COMPRESSOR TO CONTROL PANELUse the route you selected during the Planning the Installation step on page 12.123EXHAUST ALL AIR FROM THE SYSTEM PRIORTO RELEASING AIR TUBES FROM AIR FITTINGS.Route the air line tube fromthe air compressor to thecontrol panel, leaving roomto secure line safely. Useguidelines below to cut.5Install the air line tubeend onto the barbed fittingon the back of the controlpanel switch as shown.Install the air line tube endinto the 1/8 NPT push-toconnect straight fittingon the top of the aircompressor.0PSIFOR PROPER INSTALLATION, SOAK AIRLINE TUBE ENDS IN HOT WATER BEFOREINSTALLING ONTO BARBED FITTINGS.MINDELCONTROL PANELSUPPass through existing grommetor drilled hole to enter cab.1/8 NPT PUSH-TO-CONNECTSTRAIGHT FITTINGCreateloop in airline tubeAIR COMPRESSORAIR LINE TUBEDOMake sure the cut is as square as possible.Use a tube cutter or sharp utility knife.THE AIR LOOP CREATES A TRAP FORCONDENSATION TO GATHER. WITHOUTTHIS TRAP, THE AIR COMPRESSOR COULDBE DAMAGED BY WATER INTAKE.DON’TFold or kink the air line tube.Cut the air line tube at an angle.Use pliers, scissors, snips,saws, or side cutters.PROPER AND IMPROPER CUTS IN THE AIR LINE TUBESquare cutAIR LINE TUBE90 2829 Installation InstructionsAIR LINE TUBEAIR LINE TUBEAIR LINE TUBE16

6INSTALL T-FITTING AND ROUTE AIR LINE TUBE TO CONTROL PANELUse the route you selected during the Planning the Installation step on page 12.EXHAUST ALL AIR FROM THE SYSTEM PRIORTO RELEASING AIR TUBES FROM AIR FITTINGS.512345MINPSIFOR PROPER INSTALLATION, SOAK AIRLINE TUBE ENDS IN HOT WATER BEFOREINSTALLING ONTO BARBED FITTINGS.Route the air line tubefrom the control panelto the air springs.Install the air line tubeend onto the barbed fittingon the back of the controlpanel pressure gauge asshown.CONTROL PANELDELSUPDetermine a safe locationfor the push-to-connectT-fitting, where air line tubesfrom the air springs andthe control panel cansafely meet.Install the air line tubesfrom the air springs intoopposite ends on thepush-to-connect T-fitting,as shown.AIR LINETUBEPass through existinggrommet or drilled holeto enter cab.AIR LINE TUBEAIR LINE TUBEPUSH-TO-CONNECTT-FITTINGInstall the air line tube fromthe control panel to thesingle end on the push-toconnect T-fitting.AIR SPRING(sold separately)170AIR SPRING(sold separately)riderite.com

INSTALL RELAY HARNESS7x21Select a safe location within3 feet of the air compressor.2Mark and drill a 3/16" holeto mount the relay housingon the relay harness. Securewith fasteners shown.3Route the white wire withthe female spade connectorlabeled “switch panel” tothe control panel.3/16”RED ( )AIR COMPRESSORBLACK(GROUND)Install relay housingwithin 3 feet ofair compressor.10-32LOCK NUT#10 FLAT WASHER10-32 x 1”MACHINESCREW20 AMP FUSERELAY HOUSINGDRILL 3/16” HOLEIN SUITABLELOCATIONON VEHICLERED ( )BATTERY ( )ORANGE(COMPRESSOR )RELAY HARNESSWHITE(SWITCH PANEL)2829 Installation InstructionsPass through existing grommetor drilled hole to enter cab.18

8FINISH WIRING AND INSTALLATIONx21Connect wires, install ring terminalsand wire connectors as shown below.2x3x6Fasten control panel groundwires to vehicle as shown.VEHICLE INTERIOR1. Runwires.WIRE CONNECTOR#10 FLAT WASHER2. Crimp.RED RINGTERMINALBLACK (GROUND)Suitable groundlocation on vehicle.Drill 3/16” hole.To aircompressor.3. Foldand close.12 VOLT, POSITIVEDASHBOARDILLUMINATION CIRCUIT10-32 LOCK NUTx3BLACK (BACKLIGHT)RELAY HARNESS#10 FLAT WASHER10-32 x 1”MACHINE SCREW3/16”DELSUPORANGEWHITE (GROUND)(COMPRESSOR )WHITEWHITE (TO RELAY)(SWITCH PANEL)20 AMP FUSELARGE RING TERMINALRED ( )BATTERY ( )319Install the controlpanel using thesupplied fasteners.Connect to battery.10-32 LOCK NUT#10 FLAT WASHERMounting locationholes drilled in Step 2.10-32 LOCK NUT#10 FLAT WASHER#10 FLAT WASHER#10 FLAT WASHER10-32 x 1”MACHINE SCREW10-32 x 1”MACHINE SCREWriderite.com

INSTALL THE AIR FILTER9FILTER LIFE WILL VARY BASED ON ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS.PROTECT THE AIR COMPRESSOR BY CHANGING THE AIR FILTERMORE FREQUENTLY IN DUSTY CONDITIONS.1Fully secure the airfilter barb into the airline tube from the aircompressor kit.2Press air line tube ontothe barb on the air compressorair fitting until fully seated.Assure you create a loop in theair line tube, as shown, whensecuring it to the vehicle.3Periodically check the airfilter during operation.When the air filter is dirtyand needs to be replaced,contact an AuthorizedFirestone dealer topurchase a new one.AIR FILTERAIR COMPRESSORCreateloop in airline tube.AIR LINE TUBEFROM AIR COMPRESSOR KITCLEAN UP INSTALLATION1Clean up the installation usingsupplied Nylon ties, and returnall factory parts and materialsto operative state.2829 Installation Instructions10USING SUPPLIED NYLON TIES, SECURE ALLWIRING AND AIR LINE TUBE IN A MANNERTHAT DOES NOT OBSTRUCT YOUR VIEW ORABILITY TO SAFELY OPERATE THE VEHICLE.20

10TEST THE SYSTEMWith the Air Command kit and your air springs installed, you are ready to test the system.124Re-attach the negativebattery cable.3Push paddle switch up to inflatethe air springs to 70 PSI.70PSITurn on your vehicle’s ignition.Spray fittings withsoap and water mixture.5Observe bubbles.WATER SOAPSMALL SOAP BUBBLESTHAT DO NOT EXPANDNO LEAKS?Congratulations! You’re riding right with the flip of aswitch! Remember to review the Operating Instructions.21SOAP BUBBLESTHAT EXPANDLEAK?Bummer. Continue to step 11 to fix the leak.riderite.com

FIXING AN AIR LEAKEXHAUST ALL AIR FROM THE SYSTEM PRIORTO RELEASING AIR TUBES FROM AIR FITTINGS.1110PSIPush paddle switch down to releaseall air pressure from the air springs.NOTE: While doing this, if you get aquick burst of air prior to the gaugedropping to 0 PSI, your lines areincorrectly swapped.LEAK AT AIR LINE TUBEAND AIR FITTINGLEAK AT BASE OF AIRFITTING ON AIR SPRINGLEAK AT A BARBED FITTINGRelease air line tube (see page 12).Review proper cuts andprocedures in step 5. Repeatinstallation steps.Tighten air fitting one turnor until leak stops.Being careful not to scar the metalbarbs, cut away, check for debris.Trim air tube line, soak for 5minutes in hot water. Reinstall.STILL HAVE A LEAK?Refer to the Troubleshooting section of the Instruction Manual. If the leak persists,or if there is an issue with a leaking part, visit riderite.com.2829 Installation Instructions22

2829riderite.comSAFELY RETURN VEHICLE TO OPERATIVE STATEIf you removed any wheels during installation, install the wheels and torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications.Safely remove any jack stands and wheel chocks used during installation. Re-attach the negative battery cable.READ AND UNDERSTAND THE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONSThe Ride-Rite system can improve handling and comfort. Take the time to learn how to properly use and maintain yourinvestement by reading the Operating Instructions.BEFORE YOU DRIVE, CONFIRM THE FOLLOWING:Do you have a minimum of 5PSI in your air springs?5 1/2" - 6 1/2"Are your air springs standing 5 1/2" - 6 1/2" tall?Are your air springs properly aligned, left-to-right and front-to-back?Are your nuts and bolts tight?Have you removed the threaded rods from steps 1 and 2?Put your paper work back into the sleeve and keep it in your glove compartment for future reference.Secure all air line tubes and wiring inside the cab and on the outside of the truck.The system passes the leak test and holds air.The air compressor ground ring terminal is contacting bare metal, and coated with silicone if possible.Make sure no wiring, air line tubes, or hardware obstruct your vision or ability to safely operate the vehicle.There is a loop in the air line tubes as shown to prevent water or debris from getting into the aircompressor head and damaging it.The air gauge backlight turns off when the ignition is off, or when dashboard lights do not illuminate.You’ve been bagged and now your suspension is Airide equipped! Show it off with the supplied decal!NEED INSTALLATION HELP?Email us at rrtech@fsip.com. Please include photos to help us better diagnose and understand anyproblems you may be experiencing.Firestone Industrial ProductsCONNECT WITH USFirestoneIPFirestone Ride-Rite12-20

Operating Instructions andTrouble Shooting GuideThank you for purchasing Firestone air helper springs. You have purchased a quality product from the world’s numberone air spring manufacturer.This guide will provide answers to some of your questions regarding the use and operation of your new air helpersprings. Following the guidelines in this manual will help provide you with many years of trouble-free service fromyour Firestone air helper springs.For vehicle applications, air pressure requirements, air compressor CFM, maintainance, or air spring technical data,contact us at:www.ride-rite.com1-800-888-0650INSTALLER: Please leave this manual with the vehicle’s owner.WARRANTY QUESTIONSGo to www.riderite.com/installation-supportSelect “Warranty Info” tab07-16

SAFETY TIPSNever exceed the manufacturer’s recommended Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)As with your vehicle’s tires, an air helper spring is a pneumatic device that supports a portion of the vehicle’s weight.The air helper spring may fail as a result of punctures, impact damage, improper inflation, improper installation, orimproper usage. To reduce the risk of failure, we strongly recommend the following:Never overload your vehicle. The manufacturer’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) is stated on the specification plate on the chassis. You should weigh your vehicle on a truck scale when it is fully loaded and in a levelcondition to determine if your are exceeding the manufacturer’s recommended GVWR.Inspect the inflated air springs to verify that they do not contact any component of the vehicle under normalsuspension operation. The air helper spring must flex and expand during normal operation. There must be atleast 1/2” of clearance between the inflated air spring and any other component of the vehicle under normalsuspension operation.The kit is designed to clear all chassis components. If there is any interference, please call Firestone at 1 (800)888-0650.Inspect the air line tubing and the air spring to verify that they have not been too close to the exhaust system.If the distance between any portion of the air spring or air line tubing and the exhaust system is less than 6”, aheat shield should be used.Never inflate the air helper springs beyond the maximum pressure indicated in the installation manual.Never attempt to remove any component of the air spring assembly when the air springs are inflated.If an air helper spring has failed while you are on the road, operate your vehicle at reduced speeds. High speedover rough roads will result in severe bottoming of the air spring and may damage other vehicle components.Never attempt to drive the vehicle in an unleveled condition. Failure to level a heavily loaded vehicle may resultin excessive body roll and possible damage or injury.If unidentifiable problems exist with your air helper spring kit, visit Firestone on the web at www.riderite.com orcall 1 (800) 888-0650 for technical assistance.Never cut, weld, or modify the air helper springs or brackets.Do not use aerosol tire repair products in the air helper springs or a tire patch of any kind on the air helper spring.If there is a hole in the air spring it must be replaced.GENERAL INFORMATIONFirestone air helper springs are heavy duty, quality air springs designed to supplement your vehicle's existing suspension system. These durable air springs allow you to maximize your vehicle's load carrying capacity through theuse of air pressure. Proper installation, use, and operation will provide the maximum service life and performanceyour air spring kit is capable of delivering. These instructions will help you obtain the maximum benefits availablefrom your air spring kit.RIDE-RITE AIR HELPER SPRINGS Ride-Rite air helper springs are installed between the frame and the suspension of trucks, vans, and motorhomes.Ride-Rite air helper springs are capable of supporting loads up to 5000 lbs per pair.*SPORT-RITE AIR HELPER SPRINGSSport-Rite air helper springs are installed between the frame and suspension of light trucks, and utilize a sleevestyle air spring to enhance the ride when the vehicle is loaded or unloaded. Sport-Rite air helper springs arecapable of supporting loads up to 3000 lbs per pair.*LEVEL-RITE AIR HELPER SPRINGSLevel-Rite air helper springs replace the existing shock absorber with a fully-protected, reversible sleeve airspring paired it with a high-performance Bilstein monotube shock absorber for perfectly matched performancecharacteristics over the entire operation spectrum. Level-Rite air helper springs are capable of supporting loadsup to 1000 lbs per pair.*BASIC OPERATIONAs your vehicle is loaded, the stock suspension is compressed under the weight of the load. Your vehicle's stocksuspension system has been designed so that it will provide optimum performance and handling with a specificload on the vehicle. When your vehicle is loaded, its performance, handling characteristics, and ride quality maybe compromised. As the stock suspension is compressed, the ride may become "mushy", and you may encountersway and handling problems. As weight is added to the vehicle, the air helper springs become an active part of*Do not exceed the vehicle’s recommended gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR)2

the suspension system. As more air pressure is added to the air springs, they will support more weight. You will beable to compensate for a heavy load by adding air pressure to the air springs, thereby reducing sway and handlingproblems associated with a heavily loaded vehicle.TABLE “A”ALL TORQUE SPECIFICATIONSUsing a torque wrench, torque the threaded fasteners to the following specifications:Fasteners used on studs and blind holes in air springsHex nuts installed on carriage boltsHex nuts installed on 3/8" hex boltsHex nuts and bolts used to secure brackets to frameHex nuts installed on

INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS riderite.com 2829 Firestone Industrial Products SECTION 1 - AIR SPRING. 1 riderite.com! IMPORTANT THIS KIT ONLY FITS DUAL-REAR-WHEEL PICKUP TRUCKS. IT WILL NOT FIT SINGLE REAR-WHEEL TRUCKS. FITS: 2017 and up Ford F350 4WD with Dual Rear Wheels 2017 and up Ford F450 4WD Pickup (not Cab and Chassis)